Lawn mowing calendar

January: Service and carry out any necessary pre-season repairs to your Green mower.

February: Growth will be starting so the yearly lawn work programme really starts this month, continue removing leaves, weeds and stones from the lawn’s surface. Lightly top the grass so that the lawn has a uniform height of cut.

March: As soon as the ground conditions are suitable, the first cut can be made on preferably dry grass as needed in starting. To open up the surface the first cut should merely “top” the grass as close cutting at this stage could result in severe yellowing or browning. Two cuts are generally sufficient this month.

April: Fortnightly lawn mowing starts as temperature and growth increases. Mow as and when necessary to maintain the lawn at a uniform height. Lawn clippings should be collected and composted.

May: To encourage dense growth, lightly brush the grass prior to mowing. Keeps mowing increasing the frequency as required, gradually reducing the height of each cut.

June: Summer mowing should now be under way. It should be necessary to mow the lawn twice a week. Raking before mowing is important this month as the combined action keeps runners of clover under control. Water the grass if necessary, and remember to soak thoroughly. Lubricate your Green mower and check that blades are sharp and adjusted correctly.

July: As a general rule the grass clippings should be removed each time you mow, If weather conditions are dry and hot and the grass is weed free, leave the clippings on the lawn to help maintain ground moisture.

 August: The autumn rains make the end of July and August a good growing time so mow frequently, watering and top dressing as necessary. In dry weather conditions leave the grass longer raising the mowing height to help retain ground moisture. If moisture level is good, mow as for previous months.

September:  Cutting at height, allows the grass to thicken and established the roots from the winter frost and snow. Check sharpness and setting of your Green mower blades. Blunt blades tear grass, resulting in a poor finish and increased risk of disease.

October: Mowing will all but finish, continue if weather conditions allow, raise the cut to winter height.

November: More than likely the last regular cut of the year. Once grass cutting has finished for the year, clean and service your Green mower and store with other equipment in a dry secure shed or garage.

Winter: December is a slack end of a busy year. Keep off the lawn if it is very wet or frozen; be careful with turns at this time of the year as this can damage the grass. It’s a good time to put your feet up, taking the opportunity to review the past year and begin planning for the year ahead.

• Why not start keeping a record of cutting? Such a record will enable progress to be monitored and failures addressed, helping you produce a beautiful lawn in future seasons. There is no reason to have a ‘scruffy’ looking lawn for one third of the year nowJ